Start of social and educational practice: a step toward professional confidence

The beginning of a new semester is always filled with events, meetings, and important organizational steps. For students of Specialty 231 Social Work (I10 Social Work and Counseling), Group 203 SR-z (part-time mode of study), one of these important steps was an organizational meeting dedicated to preparing for their social and educational (internship-based) practice.

The meeting was conducted by lecturers of the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education, who provide organizational and methodological support for practical training. Students were instructed on the procedure for completing the practice, selecting a practice base, preparing the required documentation, and were informed about reporting requirements and the final assessment process.

The social and educational (internship-based) practice is designed to help students:

• learn to organize social and educational activities in real-life settings;
• analyze the needs of children and youth;
• plan and implement social and educational initiatives;
• make professional decisions and take responsibility for them;
• develop creativity and teamwork skills.

It is a space where theoretical knowledge is transformed into real professional action under the guidance of experienced lecturers and specialists at practice sites.

For future social workers, this practice is a valuable opportunity to strengthen professional skills, understand the specifics of working in different institutions, experience the dynamics of interaction with children and youth, and identify their own strengths and areas for professional growth.

Social and educational practice is not merely a stage of study. It is a step toward becoming a professional – in cooperation with the department, practice institutions, and the professional community.

Based on materials provided by the Department of Social Work and Inclusive Education